Transport – Canberra CityNewshttp://citynews.com.au
All about CanberraTue, 26 Sep 2017 07:12:01 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.221526277Liberals promise to roll back paid parkinghttp://citynews.com.au/2016/liberals-promise-roll-back-paid-parking/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/liberals-promise-roll-back-paid-parking/#commentsThu, 13 Oct 2016 02:26:48 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=136841JEREMY Hanson says the Canberra Liberals will make parking fairer across the ACT by removing the late night and weekend extensions to paid parking that Andrew Barr made in 2015. “We will also improve parking […]

JEREMY Hanson says the Canberra Liberals will make parking fairer across the ACT by removing the late night and weekend extensions to paid parking that Andrew Barr made in 2015.

“We will also improve parking in industrial precincts like Phillip and at the Canberra Hospital and University of Canberra,” Jeremy said.

“Last year Andrew Barr laughed off his hikes to paid parking by comparing costs to a bottle of sparkling mineral water at a Civic restaurant when having a $100 dinner. It demonstrates just how out of touch he is with families who need to use parking on nights and weekends,” Alistair Coe said.

“The Canberra Liberals will:

Revert to the pre-2015 paid parking arrangements in ACT Government controlled car parks; meaning weekend and night charges will no longer apply, except on Friday nights and Saturday mornings.

Stop the conversion of street-side parks into paid parking in industrial areas. We will consult on apportioning these parks between short-stay and long-stay parks. We will also deliver free parking permits for low paid workers and consult on how to extend them to other low paid workers. We will also consult on how to convert median land (particularly in Phillip) for more car parks and increase overall parking in industrial precincts.

]]>http://citynews.com.au/2016/liberals-promise-roll-back-paid-parking/feed/1136841Free buses and more light rail from Laborhttp://citynews.com.au/2016/free-buses-light-rail-labor/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/free-buses-light-rail-labor/#respondMon, 10 Oct 2016 22:48:38 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=136711ANDREW Barr says a re-elected Labor government will start work immediately on stage two of our city-wide light rail network and encourage more people to use public transport with a free trial of all new […]

ANDREW Barr says a re-elected Labor government will start work immediately on stage two of our city-wide light rail network and encourage more people to use public transport with a free trial of all new Rapid Bus services.

“Almost 210,000 Canberrans will live, work or study within one kilometre of the Woden light rail corridor by 2041,” Andrew said.

“Planning for this growth will be vital to reducing congestion on our roads and providing commuters with a quick, practical and efficient alternative to driving their cars.

“Labor has already committed to take light rail to Woden via the Parliamentary Triangle and create a north-south spine for our public transport network. This will get light rail across the lake, and buses, bikes, walking routes and later stages of light rail will feed into this spine, making it even easier for Canberrans to get where they need to go.

“To support this city-building infrastructure, Labor will invest $25 million for scoping and design work to progress the project to the procurement stage. This important work will assist in understanding the stage two route alignment, develop the funding and financing model for the project, and determine the best procurement approach for the Territory.

“Light rail is an affordable infrastructure investment for the future of Canberra, and only Labor will deliver a city-wide light rail network. Light rail has been talked about for 100 years, and it’s now or never. It has to start somewhere, but under the Canberra Liberals, it never will.

“Before the 2012 election, ACT Labor committed to “plan, finance and develop the first stage of a Light Rail Network” with “construction estimated to commence in 2016”. We’re delivering on our promise with stage one now underway.

“Stage two will continue the renewal of Woden, where the town centre is already benefiting from recent upgrades and the ACT Government decision to relocate more than 1000 public servants to Woden at a time when the Federal Liberal Government has taken jobs out of Woden.

“Labor will also offer all passengers on our new Rapid Routes a free two-month trial of the service to encourage more people give public transport a go.

“The first new rapid buses to begin would be the Green Rapid from Woden to the City via Manuka and Barton, and the Black Rapid from Belconnen to Gungahlin. Passengers on these new routes will be able to ride for free for the first two months of service from mid-2017.

“In another reform to the bus network, Labor will also relaunch the Xpresso routes as ‘Peak Express’ services. On average these services carry around 13,000 passengers a week – 3.7 per cent of total bus patronage, but they could do better.

“A rebranding and marketing campaign will be undertaken to encourage more people to use these ‘Peak Express’ services, which are a great way to commute quickly to work every day.

“A new Peak Express service will be trialled from Gungahlin to Tuggeranong, offering three express non-stop morning and evening services between the two centres.

“While the Liberals are concreting the whole of Northbourne Avenue and turning it into an eight lane highway with massive bus bays that will replace footpaths, Labor has a real plan to improve our public transport system so it becomes more convenient, efficient, affordable and reliable – a genuine alternative to driving.”

]]>http://citynews.com.au/2016/free-buses-light-rail-labor/feed/0136711Liberals offer a 10 year plan for cyclinghttp://citynews.com.au/2016/liberals-offer-10-year-plan-cycling/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/liberals-offer-10-year-plan-cycling/#commentsMon, 10 Oct 2016 01:21:23 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=136632ALISTAIR Coe has released the Canberra Liberals’ vision for the future of cycling in Canberra, with a focus on improved connectedness, safety and a better experience for cyclists. Alistair says “Our 10 year vision includes: […]

]]>http://citynews.com.au/2016/liberals-offer-10-year-plan-cycling/feed/113663240 zones are backhttp://citynews.com.au/2016/40-zones-back/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/40-zones-back/#respondMon, 10 Oct 2016 01:13:46 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=136629ACT Policing is advising motorists that 40km/h speed limits are in effect in school zones as the new school term starts today (Monday 10 October). The speed restrictions are in place between 8am and 4pm […]

ACT Policing is advising motorists that 40km/h speed limits are in effect in school zones as the new school term starts today (Monday 10 October).

The speed restrictions are in place between 8am and 4pm within sign-posted school zones and police will be targeting speeding in school zones throughout Canberra.

Officer in Charge of Traffic Operations Acting Station Sergeant Ken Hedges urged drivers to drive carefully around schools and adhere to the speed limit.

“It’s important for drivers, particularly those who drive through school zones regularly, not to become complacent about the speed limit,” Acting Station Sergeant Hedges said.

“Slowing down to 40km in school zones is important for two main reasons; it gives drivers more time to stop in an unexpected situation and in the event of a collision it lessens the force.”

Penalties for speeding in school zones range from $257 and the loss of one demerit point for exceeding the limit by less than 15km/h to $1,831 and the loss of six demerit points for exceeding the limit by more than 45km/h.

]]>http://citynews.com.au/2016/40-zones-back/feed/0136629Liberals promise to duplicate William Slim Drivehttp://citynews.com.au/2016/liberals-promise-duplicate-william-slim-drive/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/liberals-promise-duplicate-william-slim-drive/#respondThu, 29 Sep 2016 22:55:50 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=135894ALISTAIR Coe says a Canberra Liberals Government will duplicate William Slim Drive from Ginninderra Drive all the way to the Barton Highway. “The Canberra Liberals will commit $39 million to ensure the nearly 3.5km stretch […]

ALISTAIR Coe says a Canberra Liberals Government will duplicate William Slim Drive from Ginninderra Drive all the way to the Barton Highway.

“The Canberra Liberals will commit $39 million to ensure the nearly 3.5km stretch of road is fully duplicated as it often becomes a major bottleneck for motorists in Belconnen and Gungahlin during peak periods. We will plan to commence works in 2017-18,” Alistair said.

“The duplication of William Slim Drive will connect with our previously announced commitments of a fully duplicated Gundaroo Drive and Flyover at the current Barton Highway/Gundaroo Drive/William Slim roundabout.

“When completed, the three major improvements will properly cater for motorists in the rapidly growing Gungahlin region as well as western and northern Belconnen suburbs.

“Unlike ACT Labor, the Canberra Liberals have a comprehensive plan to fix the ACT’s roads. Under Labor, there has been lack of planning, which has been demonstrated by the issues with the GDE, Horse Park Drive, Gundaroo Drive and others.

“We believe in building effective roads, not a $14 billion tram network that will drive rates through the roof,” Mr Coe concluded.

]]>http://citynews.com.au/2016/liberals-promise-duplicate-william-slim-drive/feed/0135894Greens promise an active travel officehttp://citynews.com.au/2016/greens-promise-active-travel-office/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/greens-promise-active-travel-office/#commentsWed, 28 Sep 2016 23:57:33 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=135808THE Greens have announced the final plank of their transport plan. “The Greens are putting the community first and making it easier to walk, cycle, and use public transport across Canberra,” said Veronica Wensing, ACT […]

“The Greens are putting the community first and making it easier to walk, cycle, and use public transport across Canberra,” said Veronica Wensing, ACT Greens spokesperson for women and social inclusion.

“We know that women are less likely to cycle and face harassment both on the streets and our roads. Part of transforming our city into an active travel capital means making sure women and children can feel as confident as men travelling around our city.

“We need facilities that work for everyone – women, people with disabilities and people of all ages. That’s why we’ll commit to seeking out best practice design and standards that maximise the health benefits of active transport.

“We’ll create an Active Travel Office and employ an Active Travel Coordinator to make sure we have the right infrastructure, that people know it’s there and feel confident about getting out and using it,” Ms Wensing said.

ACT Greens leader Shane Rattenbury said this announcement was the final component of the Greens’ vision for transport in Canberra.

“At this election, the Greens are putting forward a vision – and a plan – to make Canberra a city that works for the community, not just the other way around.

“So far we’ve seen a Liberal party addicted to roads at the expense of the sustainable transport we need, and a Labor party that talks the talk on an active, connected Canberra but still fails to properly invest in walking and cycling infrastructure.

“We’re committed to a light rail network that’s powered by clean energy, integrated with our buses, and connected to bike and walking paths.

“Every aspect of our plan will work together to make it easier to get around Canberra,” Mr Rattenbury said.

]]>http://citynews.com.au/2016/greens-promise-active-travel-office/feed/1135808Greens promise better bike facilitieshttp://citynews.com.au/2016/greens-promise-better-bike-facilities/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/greens-promise-better-bike-facilities/#respondWed, 28 Sep 2016 00:01:50 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=135765SHANE Rattenbury has launched the latest tranche of the Greens’ transport plan to make Canberra quick and easy to get around – a plan for better bike facilities. “Transport is a major priority for the […]

SHANE Rattenbury has launched the latest tranche of the Greens’ transport plan to make Canberra quick and easy to get around – a plan for better bike facilities.

“Transport is a major priority for the Greens at this election. We are putting the community first and making it easier to get around our city,” Shane said.

“Canberrans want more travel options. Half of the car trips in Canberra are less than five kilometres, which is easy and quick to manage on a bike. All we need is the right infrastructure to make these journeys quick, safe and easy.

“We want to see a major Bicycle Hub for Civic and other town centres – like Brisbane’s City2Cycle facility – and we’ll work with the private sector to explore the options.

“Cyclists would be able to use this facility to take a shower, store their bike, and use other facilities such as bicycle repair or laundry services.

“We’ll also start work on a bike share scheme for the Parliamentary Triangle, the City, New Acton, ANU and Dickson.

“A bike scheme will complement our light rail and bus package to reduce traffic and make it quicker and easier to get around Canberra,” Mr Rattenbury said.

]]>http://citynews.com.au/2016/greens-promise-better-bike-facilities/feed/0135765Barr promises to think about cycle tourism if returnedhttp://citynews.com.au/2016/barr-promises-think-cycle-tourism-returned/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/barr-promises-think-cycle-tourism-returned/#respondTue, 27 Sep 2016 23:22:36 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=135763ANDREW Barr says a re-elected Labor Government will work with local cycling groups and VisitCanberra to develop a new strategy to market Canberra to the domestic and international cycling community. “Our city has clear advantages […]

ANDREW Barr says a re-elected Labor Government will work with local cycling groups and VisitCanberra to develop a new strategy to market Canberra to the domestic and international cycling community.

“Our city has clear advantages as a cycling destination, with a range of easily accessible cycling options on our doorstep,” Andrew said.

“Whether it’s a leisurely tour along the banks of one of our lakes, an adrenaline-pumping mountain bike ride or one of our calendar of competitive cycling events, Canberra has something for every cyclist – particularly with Labor’s Better Suburbs Plan making our cycling infrastructure even better.

“Cycling holidays are more popular than ever and there is a huge opportunity for our city to tap into this. We know cyclists on short breaks are drawn to the option of cool accommodation and great food in addition to their riding activities, so with one good thing after another our cool little capital is just the place.

“We’ll make the most of our cycling facilities, from our excellent suburban bike paths to the world class Stromlo Forest Park, the expertise of our highly-engaged cycling community and the award-winning skills of the VisitCanberra team to promote our city as a top cycling destination.”

Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said Canberra’s cycling fundamentals are outstanding – great roads, dedicated paths and a regional hospitality offering which offers great touring and accommodation possibilities.

“ACT Labor has supported cycling across different formats an as both a sport and transport option. It has grown to become one of the most common forms of physical activity in Canberra.

“Together with our cycling and broader tourism industry we will share this story nationally and internationally, with all the economic benefits that can flow.”

]]>http://citynews.com.au/2016/barr-promises-think-cycle-tourism-returned/feed/0135763Greens promise $60 million for pathshttp://citynews.com.au/2016/greens-promise-60-million-paths/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/greens-promise-60-million-paths/#respondTue, 27 Sep 2016 00:15:34 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=135739THE Greens have announced the latest plank of their transport plan, which includes a $60 million investment in walking and cycling infrastructure. “The Greens are putting the community first by prioritising people and investing in […]

THE Greens have announced the latest plank of their transport plan, which includes a $60 million investment in walking and cycling infrastructure.

“The Greens are putting the community first by prioritising people and investing in cycling and walking infrastructure so people can get around our city, ” Shane Rattenbury said.

“We all want to be able to travel without the congestion choking our roads. That’s why the Greens will make a $60 million investment in building better walking and cycling infrastructure across Canberra.

“At this election, the Greens have a vision – and a plan – to make it easier to get around Canberra. We’re committed to a light rail network that’s powered by clean energy, integrated with our buses, and connected to bike and walking paths.

Indra Esguerra, ACT Greens spokesperson for health, says the Greens’ plan is about building a healthy, connected and convenient city for the future.

“A city built for the community means a city where people can get around by foot or on their bikes safely and easily,” Indra said.

“Prioritising people over cars and more roads, is not only better for our health but it makes our roads less congested when people do have to use their cars.

“Canberrans love to spend time outdoors and riding to and from work. The Greens are the only party with a plan to make it easier for everyone to get around our city – whether that’s by bus, light rail, on foot or cycling,” said Ms Esguerra.

]]>http://citynews.com.au/2016/greens-promise-60-million-paths/feed/0135739Labor promise more cash to lure airlines to Canberrahttp://citynews.com.au/2016/labor-promise-cash-lure-airlines-canberra/
http://citynews.com.au/2016/labor-promise-cash-lure-airlines-canberra/#respondFri, 23 Sep 2016 00:16:58 +0000http://citynews.com.au/?p=135527ANDREW Barr says a re-elected ACT Labor government will establish a new fund to attract more airline services to Canberra, adding more international destinations or low cost options. “Building on the successful co-operative marketing model […]

ANDREW Barr says a re-elected ACT Labor government will establish a new fund to attract more airline services to Canberra, adding more international destinations or low cost options.

“Building on the successful co-operative marketing model we have used with Singapore Airlines, who began the capital’s first international flights this week, we will create new incentives for more air services for Canberra,” Andrew said.

“It was an ACT Labor Government that delivered the first direct international flight into Canberra, which began earlier this week offering Canberrans the opportunity to fly directly to Singapore and New Zealand, delivering on a 2012 election commitment.

“It was also an ACT Labor Government that attracted a low-cost carrier to fly from Canberra Airport, with TigerAir formally agreeing to fly between Canberra and Melbourne starting later this year.

“This new plan will see $770,000 allocated to the Airline Partnership Fund, which will be available through an agreement between the ACT Government and the airline, to market and promote new or expanded flights. This is similar to the agreements the ACT Labor Government made between Singapore Airlines and TigerAir. Partnership funding will be open to existing or new low cost domestic carriers and international carriers.

“ACT Labor also wants to ensure the Territory takes advantage of the improved connectivity to and from our city. A re-elected ACT Labor government will deliver increased funding for the Canberra Convention Bureau – which is designed to boost our business tourism. This funding will allow the Bureau to attract more conventions to the National Convention Centre, which received a $5.3 million upgrade in the 2015-16 ACT Budget, as well as other hotels and events spaces in the National Capital.

“We have a solid track record on delivering for Canberrans by securing better services to and from our city. ACT Labor understands that better connectivity between Canberra and the rest of Australia and the world is a significant boost for local businesses. It also ensures that Canberra remains the most liveable city in the world.

“This funding will support further growth for employers in our export industry and our tourism industry – both of which are already set to benefit from the agreements ACT Labor has reached for services to Singapore, New Zealand and a low cost option to Melbourne.”